THE PATH OF FAITH

 

I love Lehi of The Book of Mormon. I love him because he was a dreamer. He certainly proves that the path of faith is not for the faint hearted. Dreams, visions and revelations are in the spiritual realm and that’s where Lehi was.

His older sons couldn’t accept their father’s inclination for the spiritual because he was ‘a visionary man’ (1 Nephi 2:11). If that’s Nephi’s description of him, I am certain it was a complimentary one. If it was his brothers’, it would have been a scornful one leaning to opinions of lunacy. And this is how all unbelievers view the spiritual realm.

I can relate to Lehi. For many years now I have held Section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants close to my heart. It contains a promise to the faithful saints, the fulfilment of which I have often prayed for: revelation of mysteries of the kingdom, wonders of eternity, wisdom, understanding, enlightenment, knowledge of things ‘which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet entered into the heart of man’ (v 5-10). This was the world of Lehi.

I can also relate to his son Nephi. He also thirsted for knowledge of ‘the mysteries of God’ (1 Nephi 2:16). Because of this noble desire, Nephi was ‘highly favoured of the Lord’ and his wish was granted (1 Nephi 1:1).

Since my quest to understand God’s ways, I have been blessed over the years with dreams, revelations and memories from my pre-earth life. At times I have wondered if my imagination was just a tad too fertile but I know deep down, I too have been favoured of God. All that was revealed to me has been pertinent to my life and my progression, even my understanding of the scriptures.

I know there are many of you that have enjoyed the same privileges. We are all entitled to them, if we want them….as long as we want them for the right reason.

I have reflected on Lehi’s spiritual riches and have realised what a responsibility it is to be so endowed with such knowledge and understanding…..”for of him unto whom much is given much is required, and he who sins against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation” (D&C 82:3). Lehi endangered his life by preaching to the Jews (1 Nephi 1:20) but how dangerous his path would have been if he disregarded God’s messages? Can you see the responsibility of the path of faith that Lehi honoured? What is given us is not to be trifled with.

Surely we are blessed above all the people of the earth……if we are faithful, the Saviour of this world who guides His Church and oversees the salvation of humanity, will fill our spiritual cup daily with His Spirit which will enlighten us and give us understanding that will reach to heaven….(D&C 76:9,10).

- CATHRYNE ALLEN 

(Art: Fill My Cup Lord by Danny Hahlbohm)